The Best Hotels to Book in North Carolina for Every Traveler
When looking for reasons to visit North Carolina, the old North State has no shortage of answers. From the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the clear waters of the Outer Banks in the east, NC is filled with a diverse natural landscape, perfect for exploring. With so much to discover, you’re going to need a superb starting point for your sightseeing adventures – here are some of the best places to stay in North Carolina, bookable with Culture Trip.
1. Umstead Hotel & Spa
Resort
2. The Inn at Biltmore Estate
Inn
Housed on the historic Biltmore estate, first founded by the renowned Vanderbilts, the Inn has every bit of the luxury and opulence that made the family famous. With sweeping views of the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s easy to forget you’re just a short drive from the bustling city of Asheville. The Inn’s interiors are traditionally furnished, reflecting the rich history of the estate – but it’s the fantastic in-house facilities that truly make the hotel shine. These include its very own winery, a world-class spa and even a charming model railway in the botanical gardens.
3. The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte
Bed and Breakfast, Spa Hotel, Hotel
5. Proximity Hotel
Independent Hotel, Boutique Hotel
Based in the charming city of Greensboro, the Proximity Hotel is a modern take on the classic hotel experience. The employee-owned hotel goes to great lengths to be as eco-conscious and sustainable as possible – it was the first hotel in America to receive a LEEDS Platinum green rating. A popular choice for wedding parties looking for a contemporary ceremony, the hotel has huge loft-like suites featuring specifically commissioned furnishings, breathtaking event spaces and a delectable menu in the Print Works restaurant.
6. Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville
Chain Hotel, Boutique Hotel
The Grand Bohemian sets itself apart from other hotels in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains through its fierce individuality and fascinating aesthetic. A wild spirit channels itself through the worn leather furnishings, curious antiques and carefully curated artworks. The unorthodox aesthetic runs through the guest rooms, each channeling a 19th-century hunting lodge – but with up-to-date amenities. Be sure to check out the Red Stag Grill restaurant, which offers a creative blend of European comfort foods with Carolina sensibilities – it’s frequently touted as one of the best restaurants in town.
7. 21C Museum Hotel Durham
Hotel
8. The Durham
Hotel
9. Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte
Chain Hotel, Boutique Hotel
In the very heart of Charlotte’s animated uptown, you’ll find the prestigious Grand Bohemian Hotel – a perfect jumping-off spot for exploring the city’s many nearby attractions. Well-suited for sports fans, the hotel is a short distance to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Spectrum Center and Truist Field. If you’re feeling like you need a pamper, the hotel has a great selection of facilities – including a fully-equipped fitness center and dedicated on-site spa, with an eclectic collection of recuperating treatments, body scrubs and massages.
10. Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
Chain Hotel, Boutique Hotel
Originally built in 1929 and serving as the architectural ancestor of New York’s Empire State Building, today the Cardinal Hotel still offers its guests traditional Southern hospitality with a 21st-century spin. Playing on its Art Deco origins, the hotel itself is a fantastic blend of the classic and contemporary, with spacious suites, elegant ballrooms and an energetic in-house eatery. A Southern take on a traditional French brasserie, the Katherine has an appetizing menu of fresh seafood, American classics and delectable drinks.
11. Grand Old Lady Hotel
Independent Hotel, Inn
First opened 100 years ago, the Grand Old Lady lives up to both its name and reputation. Set amongst the peaceful Smoky Mountains, the hotel has a calm and restful atmosphere, with pleasant and personal service. Each room is traditionally furnished, with luxury linens, an ensuite bathroom and even an authentic clawfoot bathtub. Make sure to try the complimentary three-course American breakfast, served in the hotel’s ample in-house dining room.
12. Sanderling Resort
Resort, Spa Hotel
A few steps away from the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks, the Sanderling Resort is the perfect option for guests looking for an escape to the ocean. The hotel has a choice of traditional hotel suites in their North & South Inns, as well as private beach houses – well-suited for family breaks or romantic weekends away. With a true focus on wellness, the resort features an excellent on-site spa with a number of signature treatments and classic therapies available for guests to book.
For a more indulgent stay, book one of the best spa retreats in North Carolina now with Culture Trip, or for more plush hotels in North Carolina, check out our guide to the best hotels in the Triangle, North Carolina, bookable with Culture Trip.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.